Dear Freshmen, If there is one thing that every newcomer dreads, it’s their very first day of high school. I remember the sheer feeling of panic; I didn’t know where to go, who to talk to or how to act. You’re hit with more change than you could have ever thought humanly possible to process. Freshmen are at a big disadvantage. The upperclassmen already know what to expect, where to go and how to act like themselves. Fortunately for you, class of 2016, I’m here to help. Being a freshman is made out to be way scarier than it should be. Yes, change is scary, but if you listen to me and follow a few simple rules, you should make it through your freshman year just fine. 1. First impressions are very important, so make good ones! I know it sounds like a simple task, but many people have mastered the art of coming on too strong; whether it be toward new teachers or new friends. Just be yourself and lay low for the first few days. 2. Next, figure out your schedule. I don’t just mean your class schedule; I mean at home too. Procrastination can swallow you whole if you’re not careful. Procrastination is made more difficult with the change in curriculum and increase in homework. Get yourself set on a schedule, and keep track of your work. 3. Be organized and study! High school is definitely not the same as middle school. You can’t just study the period before and expect to ace the test. Keep a planner and keep track of dates. It’ll really help you with staying on top of your grades. 4. Get out of your comfort zone. It sounds scary, but the sooner you do this the better! Talk to new people, sit with new people at lunch and team up with new people on projects. High school is about growing up and learning how to function in the real world, after all. In the real world, all of your friends from eighth grade aren’t going to follow you to your new job. 5. Get yourself out there! Try out for new sports, clubs or after school activities. Again, I know it sounds cliché, but it really does help. The more time you spend with new people, the more comfortable you become. 6. Next, and please listen to me because all upperclassmen will appreciate this, learn to walk in the hallways. We understand that it’s safer to travel in packs, but upperclassmen are made increasingly angry every time we have to battle our way through a gaggle of freshmen. Thin the crowd a little, please. 7. Dress appropriately; this rule applies to more than just freshmen. I know you’re impressed with your super-speedy metabolism, but no one else is. People will take you seriously if you dress more appropriately. I don’t mean wear a suit or tights every day, but longer shorts would be appreciated. 8. Avoid the so-called “drama.” It’s a pretty simple rule. Just be honest, be nice and do what you’re supposed to. Don’t make any unnecessary trouble for yourself; it only makes you look bad. 9. Be a good student. It may sound stupid, but these four years determine where you go to college. Go to class on time, turn in your work and try your best. 10. Lastly and probably the most difficult: be yourself. High school is the time that shapes the person that you will become. It’s difficult to stay true to the person you are. Make wise decisions, and choose your friends carefully. So, my dear freshmen, please listen to my advice. It will make your first year of high school fly by faster than you know. Just be nice, be organized and be yourselves; the rest of high school should be a breeze.